Simple Tips to Keep Clutter Out of Your Home This Year
As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time to reassess our habits and make intentional choices to prevent clutter from accumulating in our homes. Clutter not only affects the physical appearance of our spaces, it also affects our mental health. By adopting mindful practices, we can create a more organized and calm living environment. Here are some effective strategies to help you stop clutter accumulation this year:
Implement the 24-Hour Rule Before Making Purchases
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to make impulsive purchases that later contribute to household clutter. To combat this, adopt the 24-hour rule: before buying a non-essential item, wait for 24 hours. This pause allows you to evaluate whether the item is a genuine need or simply a fleeting want. Often, you'll find that the urge to purchase diminishes after a day, saving you money and preventing unnecessary items from entering your home.
Before bringing a new item into your home, here are some questions you can ask yourself:
Necessity: Do you truly need this item or is it fulfilling a temporary desire?
Space: Do you have a designated place that the new item will live? Will it fit comfortably without causing overcrowding?
Maintenance: Are you willing to clean, store, and maintain this item? Does it require special care?
Designate a Primary Shopper For the Household
Having multiple household members responsible for shopping can lead to duplicate items and over-purchasing. By designating one person as the primary shopper, you can streamline purchasing decisions, maintain a consistent shopping list, and reduce the chances of buying items you already own. This approach not only minimizes clutter but also promotes better budget management.
Find Alternative Sources of Dopamine
For many people, shopping provides a dopamine boost, offering temporary pleasure. However, this habit can lead to accumulating items that clutter your space. To break this cycle, identify alternative activities that provide similar satisfaction without adding physical items to your home. Consider the following:
Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing the desire for retail therapy. Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or joining a fitness class, find an activity you enjoy.
Socialize with Friends and Family: Spending quality time with loved ones can fulfill emotional needs that might otherwise drive impulsive shopping. Organize regular get-togethers, game nights, or virtual meet-ups to stay connected.
Pursue a New Hobby: Diving into a new hobby can be both fulfilling and distracting from the urge to shop. Consider activities like painting, writing, gardening, or learning a musical instrument. Choose hobbies that don't require accumulating excessive materials.
Limit Exposure to Advertising and Promotions
Advertising can create a perceived need for items that aren't essential. By limiting exposure to advertisements—such as unsubscribing from promotional emails or reducing time spent on shopping apps and social media—you can decrease the temptation to make unnecessary purchases.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you find it challenging to manage clutter on your own, consider hiring a professional organizer. I can provide you with client-centered strategies that are realistic for your busy life! If you are ready to get organized, schedule your complimentary 20-minute Zoom consultation to learn about in-home and virtual home organization sessions. Let’s get you moving toward having a balanced and organized home this year!
Thank you for inviting me into your homes, lives, & hearts.
xo, Sarah Larsen
Home Organizer in Portland, Oregon